To relate the gripping story in just two hours, and to project the creepy atmosphere of Manderley, so memorably conveyed by Hitchcock, is certainly a challenge.

Clifford Williams's adaptation, directed by Jennifer Crossley, came across remarkably well, building up to a tense and stunningly realised climax as the truth behind charismatic Rebecca's death is revealed.

The action is confined to the hallway of Manderley, complete with stately staircase, in a fine set by Jim Crossley that was deservedly applauded but needed more atmospheric lighting.

Amy Jagger was convincing and sympathetic as the new Mrs de Winter, overcoming initial shyness and social awkwardness to display great strength of spirit at the end.

Tall and commanding rather than glamorous, Andy Carter as Maxim de Winter grew into his rather enigmatic role, particularly in the second half.

Sharon Kelly, prowling the stage as Mrs Danvers, was forbidding rather than sinister, exuding haughty disapproval rather than skeletal malice born of obsession.

The other characters – Matthew Parker acting in a very natural manner as tactful estate-manager Frank Crawley, Jenny Gore as Maxim's jolly-hockeystick sister Beatrice, Steve Hirst as bluff Colonel Julyan and Vaughan Leslie as wide-boy Jack Favell – lent strong support.